Another Chance for the Luna Queen novel

Chapter 0226 Ella POV At some point , I managed to fall asleep , though far too late .

When my mother knocked on the door to wake me for the rehearsal dinner , I was beyond exhausted .

It took several attempts for me to stir , let alone keep my eyes open long enough to respond .

Somehow , I forced myself out of bed and spent a little time getting dressed and doing my makeup .

The result was passable not glamorous , but at least I didnt look like a zombie .

By the time I made my way downstairs , Alexander had alreally arrived .

I paused at the end of the hallway , unnoticed for the moment , and took the opportunity to observe the way my parents interacted with him in my absence .

My mother , whose initial reservations about Alexander had been so evident , now smiled warmly and genuinely as they spoke .

It wasnt the polite smile she gave out of obligation ; it was sincere , the kind that made the corners of her eyes crinkle .

Alexander , to my relief , returned her expression with equal sincerity , his charm understated but natural .

Seeing them like this lifted a weight from my chest .

My parents concerns about my relationship with Alexander seemed to have melted away .

After everything that had happened with David , Id feared that their trust in my judgment had been irreparably damaged .

But now , it seemed , they were beginning to see Alexander as I did someone who was not only trustworthy but who cared for me deeply .

Did you sleep well ? Alexander asked suddenly , his voice drawing me out of my thoughts .

I laughed , realizing Id been caught spying .

I dont know about well , I said , smiling sheepishly , but I did sleep , so thats something .

Well , youre just in time , Alexander said as he walked over to greet me with a kiss on the cheek .

The guests have already begun to arrive and are enjoying hors doeuvres .

Its high time we start making our introductions .

I winced .

I didnt realize Id overslept so much .

Im so sorry .

Dont worry about it , Alexander said with an easy smile .

It was no trouble to delay a little while .

I appreciate it , I murmured , glancing at my parents .

They exchanged a quick , knowing look before slipping out of the room without a word , leaving Alexander and me alone .

The moment they were gone , Alexanders smile faded , replaced by a look of concern .

His eyes searched mine , his voice quieter now .

How are you really doing ? Fine … I hesitated , but he pressed gently .

I know youre worried its completely understandable but on the phone this morning , there was something in your voice … Ill admit , Ive been concerned about you all day .

His words made my chest flutter unexpectedly , though I tried to push the feeling aside .

Im sorry to have worried you , I said softly .

I just cant stop thinking about all of this .

Theres a connection I cant figure out something that goes beyond David and his bizarre quest for revenge .

Ive had the same thought , Alexander admitted , frowning slightly .

Though I cant imagine what the connection could be .

1/2 +25 BONUS Chapter 1226 No matter what resources we put toward finding answers , we keep coming up empty , I said , frustration leaking into my voice .

From the very first kidnapping 1 know the answer is there .

Its right in front of us , and yet I cant make sense of it .

At the mention of the kidnapping , Alexanders expression shifted , and his jaw tightened slightly .

You never did get to the bottom of who arranged that kidnapping , did you ? Alexander asked softly , his tone gentle but steady .

No , I admitted , the familiar weight of uncertainty pressing on me .

Its still a complete mystery just like the person who saved us that day .

I hesitated , the memory prickling at the edges of my mind .

I do wish I knew … My voice faltered as I was swept back into the past .

The memory was sharp and vivid , a wound that hadnt faded .

The room had been stifling , the air thick with tension .

The blades sharp press was still etched in my mind , but it was the voice that lingered most .

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